NEW DELHI: In a moment of strategic genius, veteran India batter Virat Kohli's on-field instructions played a pivotal role in Mohammed Siraj dismissing Australia's batting maestro Steve Smith on Day 4 of the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The dismissal proved crucial in denting Australia’s second innings and showcased the synergy between Kohli’s tactical acumen and Siraj’s execution.
The turning point came when Kohli, known for his proactiveness on the field, was caught on the stump microphone guiding Siraj on how to bowl to Smith, who had scored a big century in the first innings. Kohli instructed the pacer to bowl from the wide edge of the crease, a subtle adjustment designed to exploit Smith's tendencies.